Connector for helmet and helmet including such a connector

ABSTRACT

A connector for connecting inner and outer layers of an apparatus, the connector having: an anchor point configured to be connected to one of the inner and outer layers; a resilient portion arranged to at least partially surround the anchor point about a first axis extending in a first direction and connected to the anchor point; a peripheral portion arranged to at least partially surround the resilient portion about a second axis extending in the first direction and connected to the resilient portion, and configured to be connected to the other of the inner and outer layers. The resilient portion is configured to protrude from the peripheral portion in the first direction, in a connected state in which the connector is connected to the inner and outer layers, and deform to allow the anchor point to move relative to the peripheral portion in a direction perpendicular to the first direction.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

This application is a 35 USC § 371 National Stage application of International Application No. PCT/EP2019/086813, entitled “CONNECTOR FOR HELMET AND HELMET INCLUDING SUCH A CONNECTOR,” filed on Dec. 20, 2019, which claims the benefit of United Kingdom Patent Application No. 1821079.9, filed on Dec. 21, 2018 and United Kingdom Patent Application No. 1910120.3, filed on Jul. 15, 2019, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to connectors between inner and outer parts of an apparatus. In particular the present invention relates to an apparatus, such as a helmet, that may include a sliding interface between two components.

BACKGROUND

Helmets are known for use in various activities. These activities include combat and industrial purposes, such as protective helmets for soldiers and hard-hats or helmets used by builders, mine-workers, or operators of industrial machinery for example. Helmets are also common in sporting activities. For example, protective helmets may be used in ice hockey, cycling, motorcycling, motor-car racing, skiing, snow-boarding, skating, skateboarding, equestrian activities, American football, baseball, rugby, soccer, cricket, lacrosse, climbing, golf, airsoft, roller derby and paintballing.

Helmets can be of fixed size or adjustable, to fit different sizes and shapes of head. In some types of helmet, e.g. commonly in ice-hockey helmets, the adjustability can be provided by moving parts of the helmet to change the outer and inner dimensions of the helmet. This can be achieved by having a helmet with two or more parts which can move with respect to each other. In other cases, e.g. commonly in cycling helmets, the helmet is provided with an attachment device for fixing the helmet to the user's head, and it is the attachment device that can vary in dimension to fit the user's head whilst the main body or shell of the helmet remains the same size. In some cases, comfort padding within the helmet can act as the attachment device. The attachment device can also be provided in the form of a plurality of physically separate parts, for example a plurality of comfort pads which are not interconnected with each other. Such attachment devices for seating the helmet on a user's head may be used together with additional strapping (such as a chin strap) to further secure the helmet in place. Combinations of these adjustment mechanisms are also possible.

Helmets are often made of an outer shell, that is usually hard and made of a plastic or a composite material, and an energy absorbing layer called a liner. In other arrangements, such as a rugby scrum cap, a helmet may have no hard outer shell, and the helmet as a whole may be flexible. In any case, nowadays, a protective helmet has to be designed so as to satisfy certain legal requirements which relate to inter alia the maximum acceleration that may occur in the center of gravity of the brain at a specified load. Typically, tests are performed, in which what is known as a dummy skull equipped with a helmet is subjected to a radial blow towards the head. This has resulted in modern helmets having good energy-absorption capacity in the case of blows radially against the skull. Progress has also been made (e.g. WO 2001/045526 and WO 2011/139224, which are both incorporated herein by reference, in their entireties) in developing helmets to lessen the energy transmitted from oblique blows (i.e. which combine both tangential and radial components), by absorbing or dissipating rotation energy and/or redirecting it into translational energy rather than rotational energy.

Such oblique impacts (in the absence of protection) result in both translational acceleration and angular acceleration of the brain. Angular acceleration causes the brain to rotate within the skull creating injuries on bodily elements connecting the brain to the skull and also to the brain itself.

Examples of rotational injuries include Mild Traumatic Brain Injuries (MTBI) such as concussion, and Severe Traumatic Brain Injuries (STBI) such as subdural haematomas (SDH), bleeding as a consequence of blood vessels rapturing, and diffuse axonal injuries (DAI), which can be summarized as nerve fibers being over stretched as a consequence of high shear deformations in the brain tissue.

Depending on the characteristics of the rotational force, such as the duration, amplitude and rate of increase, either concussion, SDH, DAI or a combination of these injuries can be suffered. Generally speaking, SDH occur in the case of accelerations of short duration and great amplitude, while DAI occur in the case of longer and more widespread acceleration loads.

In helmets such as those disclosed in WO 2001/045526 and WO 2011/139224 that may reduce the rotational energy transmitted to the brain caused by oblique impacts, two parts of the helmet may be configured to slide relative to each other following an oblique impact. Connectors may be provided that, whilst connecting the parts of a helmet together, permit movement of the parts relative to each other under an impact.

SUMMARY

In order to provide such a helmet, it may be desirable to provide two components that can slide relative to each other, providing a sliding interface. It may also be desirable to be able to provide such a sliding interface without substantially increasing the manufacturing costs and/or effort.

According to an aspect of the disclosure there is provided connector for connecting inner and outer layers of an apparatus, the connector comprising: an anchor point configured to be connected to one of the inner and outer layers; a resilient portion arranged to at least partially surround the anchor point about a first axis extending in a first direction and connected to the anchor point; a peripheral portion arranged to at least partially surround the resilient portion about a second axis extending in the first direction and connected to the resilient portion, and configured to be connected to the other of the inner and outer layers; wherein the resilient portion is configured to protrude from the peripheral portion in the first direction, in a connected state in which the connector is connected to the inner and outer layers, and deform to allow the anchor point to move relative to the peripheral portion in a direction perpendicular to the first direction.

Optionally, in a non-deformed state, the resilient portion is substantially flat, and the connected state is a deformed state of the resilient portion. Alternatively, in a non-deformed state, the resilient portion protrudes from the peripheral portion in the first direction.

Optionally, the resilient portion extends across a central region of the connector surrounded by the peripheral region.

Optionally, the resilient portion substantially covers the entirety of the central region. Alternatively, the resilient portion comprises multiple sections having gaps therebetween. Optionally, the multiple sections extend in a radial direction relative to the first axis.

Optionally, the peripheral portion forms a closed loop. Optionally, the peripheral portion is substantially annular and the second axis passes through the center of the peripheral portion.

Optionally, the anchor point is aligned with the first axis.

Optionally, the first and second axes are coincident.

Optionally, the resilient portion and the peripheral portion have rotational symmetry about the coincident first and second axes.

Optionally, the peripheral portion is formed from a rigid material.

Optionally, the connector further comprises an insert formed from a rigid material, the insert being configured to be inserted into the peripheral portion to prevent the peripheral portion deforming. Optionally, the peripheral portion formed from a resilient material.

Optionally, the resilient portion and the peripheral portion are integrally formed.

Optionally, the anchor point comprises a snap-fit connector configured to snap fit with the inner or outer layer.

Optionally, the connector further comprises a cap configured to cover a central region of the connector surrounded by the peripheral region so as to prevent the ingress of unwanted material to the central region.

Optionally, the connector further comprises protrusions connected to the peripheral portion and configured to anchor the peripheral portion in the inner or outer layer.

According to a second aspect of the invention there is provided an apparatus comprising: an inner layer; an outer layer; a sliding interface between the inner layer and the outer layer; and the connector according to any preceding claim connected to the inner and outer layers so as to allow relative sliding between the inner and outer layers at the sliding interface, in response to an impact to the apparatus.

Optionally, the peripheral portion is arranged on a side of the inner or outer layer to which it is connected and that is opposite to the sliding interface, and the resilient portion protrudes through the inner or outer layer.

Optionally, the peripheral portion is arranged within a recess in the inner or outer layer to which it is connected.

Optionally, the apparatus is a helmet.

Optionally, the outer layer is a hard shell and the inner layer is an energy absorbing layer. Alternatively, the inner layer is a hard shell and the outer layer comprises one or more plates connected to the hard shell. Alternatively, both the inner layer and the outer layer are energy absorbing layers. Alternatively, the outer layer is an energy absorbing layer and the inner layer is an interface layer, configured to interface with a wearer's head. Optionally, the interface layer comprises comfort padding.

SUMMARY

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention is described in detail below, with reference to the accompanying figures, in which:

FIG. 1 depicts a cross-section through a helmet for providing protection against oblique impacts;

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the functioning principle of the helmet of FIG. 1;

FIGS. 3A, 3B & 3C show variations of the structure of the helmet of FIG. 1;

FIGS. 4 and 5 schematically depict another arrangement of a helmet;

FIGS. 6 to 9 schematically depict further arrangements of helmets;

FIG. 10 schematically depicts another arrangement of a helmet;

FIG. 11 schematically depicts another arrangement of a helmet;

FIG. 12 schematically depicts another arrangement of a helmet;

FIG. 13 shows a first view of a first example connector;

FIG. 14 shows a second view of a first example connector;

FIG. 15 shows a third view of a first example connector;

FIG. 16 shows a connection arrangement including the first example connector;

FIG. 17 shows a connection arrangement including the first example connector;

FIG. 18 shows a first view of a second example connector;

FIG. 19 shows a second view of a second example connector;

FIG. 20 shows a first view of a third example connector;

FIG. 21 shows a second view of a third example connector;

FIG. 22 shows a first view of a fourth example connector;

FIG. 23 shows a second view of a fourth example connector;

FIG. 24 shows a first view of a fifth example connector;

FIG. 25 shows a second view of a fifth example connector;

FIG. 26 shows a third view of a fifth example connector;

FIG. 27 shows a first view of a seventh example connector;

FIG. 28 shows a connection arrangement including the fifth example connector;

FIG. 29 shows another connection arrangement including the fifth example connector;

FIG. 30 shows a first view of a sixth example connector;

FIG. 31 shows a second view of a sixth example connector;

FIG. 32 shows a third view of a sixth example connector;

FIG. 33 shows a first view of a eighth example connector;

FIG. 34 shows a second view of a eighth example connector;

FIG. 35 shows a connection arrangement including the eighth example connector;

FIG. 36 shows a first view of a ninth example connector;

FIG. 37 shows a connection arrangement including the ninth example connector;

FIG. 38 shows another connection arrangement including the ninth example connector;

FIG. 39 shows another connection arrangement including the ninth example connector;

FIG. 40 shows a first view of a tenth example connector;

FIG. 41 shows a second view of a tenth example connector;

FIG. 42 shows a first view of an eleventh example connector;

FIG. 43 shows a second view of an eleventh example connector;

FIG. 44 shows a third view of an eleventh example connector;

FIG. 45 shows a twelfth example connector;

FIG. 46 shows a thirteenth example connector;

FIG. 47 shows a first view of a fourteenth example connector;

FIG. 48 shows a second view of a fourteenth example connector;

FIG. 49 shows a first view of a fifteenth example connector;

FIG. 50 shows a second view of a fifteenth example connector;

FIG. 51 shows a first view of a sixteenth example connector;

FIG. 52 shows a second view of a sixteenth example connector;

FIG. 53 shows a seventeenth example connector;

FIG. 54 shows an example helmet outer shell;

FIG. 55 shows an example helmet.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The proportions of the thicknesses of the various layers in the helmets depicted in the figures have been exaggerated in the drawings for the sake of clarity and can of course be adapted according to need and requirements.

FIG. 1 depicts a first helmet 1 of the sort discussed in WO 01/45526, intended for providing protection against oblique impacts. This type of helmet could be any of the types of helmet discussed above.

Protective helmet 1 is constructed with an outer shell 2 and, arranged inside the outer shell 2, an inner shell 3 that is intended for contact with the head of the wearer.

Arranged between the outer shell 2 and the inner shell 3 is a sliding layer 4 (also called a sliding facilitator or low friction layer), which may enable displacement between the outer shell 2 and the inner shell 3. In particular, as discussed below, a sliding layer 4 or sliding facilitator may be configured such that sliding may occur between two parts during an impact. For example, it may be configured to enable sliding under forces associated with an impact on the helmet 1 that is expected to be survivable for the wearer of the helmet 1. In some arrangements, it may be desirable to configure the sliding layer 4 such that the coefficient of friction is between 0.001 and 0.3 and/or below 0.15.

Arranged in the edge portion of the helmet 1, in the FIG. 1 depiction, may be one or more connecting members 5 which interconnect the outer shell 2 and the inner shell 3. In some arrangements, the connectors may counteract mutual displacement between the outer shell 2 and the inner shell 3 by absorbing energy. However, this is not essential. Further, even where this feature is present, the amount of energy absorbed is usually minimal in comparison to the energy absorbed by the inner shell 3 during an impact. In other arrangements, connecting members 5 may not be present at all.

Further, the location of these connecting members 5 can be varied (for example, being positioned away from the edge portion, and connecting the outer shell 2 and the inner shell 3 through the sliding layer 4).

The outer shell 2 is preferably relatively thin and strong so as to withstand impact of various types. The outer shell 2 could be made of a polymer material such as polycarbonate (PC), polyvinylchloride (PVC) or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) for example. Advantageously, the polymer material can be fibre-reinforced, using materials such as glass-fibre, Aramid, Twaron, carbon-fibre or Kevlar.

The inner shell 3 is considerably thicker and acts as an energy absorbing layer. As such, it is capable of damping or absorbing impacts against the head. It can advantageously be made of foam material like expanded polystyrene (EPS), expanded polypropylene (EPP), expanded polyurethane (EPU), vinyl nitrile foam; or other materials forming a honeycomb-like structure, for example; or strain rate sensitive foams such as marketed under the brand-names Poron™ and D3O™. The construction can be varied in different ways, which emerge below, with, for example, a number of layers of different materials.

Inner shell 3 is designed for absorbing the energy of an impact. Other elements of the helmet 1 will absorb that energy to a limited extent (e.g. the hard outer shell 2 or so-called ‘comfort padding’ provided within the inner shell 3), but that is not their primary purpose and their contribution to the energy absorption is minimal compared to the energy absorption of the inner shell 3. Indeed, although some other elements such as comfort padding may be made of ‘compressible’ materials, and as such considered as ‘energy absorbing’ in other contexts, it is well recognised in the field of helmets that compressible materials are not necessarily ‘energy absorbing’ in the sense of absorbing a meaningful amount of energy during an impact, for the purposes of reducing the harm to the wearer of the helmet.

A number of different materials and embodiments can be used as the sliding layer 4 or sliding facilitator, for example oil, Teflon, microspheres, air, rubber, polycarbonate (PC), a fabric material such as felt, etc. Such a layer may have a thickness of roughly 0.1-5 mm, but other thicknesses can also be used, depending on the material selected and the performance desired. The number of sliding layers and their positioning can also be varied, and an example of this is discussed below (with reference to FIG. 3b ).

As connecting members 5, use can be made of, for example, deformable strips of plastic or metal which are anchored in the outer shell and the inner shell in a suitable manner.

FIG. 2 shows the functioning principle of protective helmet 1, in which the helmet 1 and a skull 10 of a wearer are assumed to be semi-cylindrical, with the skull 10 being mounted on a longitudinal axis 11. Torsional force and torque are transmitted to the skull 10 when the helmet 1 is subjected to an oblique impact K. The impact force K gives rise to both a tangential force KT and a radial force KR against the protective helmet 1. In this particular context, only the helmet-rotating tangential force KT and its effect are of interest.

As can be seen, the force K gives rise to a displacement 12 of the outer shell 2 relative to the inner shell 3, the connecting members 5 being deformed. Significant reductions in the torsional force transmitted to the skull 10 can be obtained with such an arrangement. A typical reduction may be roughly 25% but reductions as high as 90% may be possible in some instances. This is a result of the sliding motion between the inner shell 3 and the outer shell 2 reducing the amount of energy which is transferred into radial acceleration.

Sliding motion can also occur in the circumferential direction of the protective helmet 1, although this is not depicted. This can be as a consequence of circumferential angular rotation between the outer shell 2 and the inner shell 3 (i.e. during an impact the outer shell 2 can be rotated by a circumferential angle relative to the inner shell 3).

Other arrangements of the protective helmet 1 are also possible. A few possible variants are shown in FIG. 3. In FIG. 3a , the inner shell 3 is constructed from a relatively thin outer layer 3″ and a relatively thick inner layer 3′. The outer layer 3″ is preferably harder than the inner layer 3′, to help facilitate the sliding with respect to outer shell 2. In FIG. 3b , the inner shell 3 is constructed in the same manner as in FIG. 3a . In this case, however, there are two sliding layers 4, between which there is an intermediate shell 6. The two sliding layers 4 can, if so desired, be embodied differently and made of different materials. One possibility, for example, is to have lower friction in the outer sliding layer than in the inner. In FIG. 3c , the outer shell 2 is embodied differently from previously. In this case, a harder outer layer 2″ covers a softer inner layer 2′. The inner layer 2′ may, for example, be the same material as the inner shell 3.

FIG. 4 depicts a second helmet 1 of the sort discussed in WO 2011/139224, which is also intended for providing protection against oblique impacts. This type of helmet could also be any of the types of helmet discussed above.

In FIG. 4, helmet 1 comprises an energy absorbing layer 3, similar to the inner shell 3 of the helmet of FIG. 1. The outer surface of the energy absorbing layer 3 may be provided from the same material as the energy absorbing layer 3 (i.e. there may be no additional outer shell), or the outer surface could be a rigid shell 2 (see FIG. 5) equivalent to the outer shell 2 of the helmet shown in FIG. 1. In that case, the rigid shell 2 may be made from a different material than the energy absorbing layer 3. The helmet 1 of FIG. 4 has a plurality of vents 7, which are optional, extending through both the energy absorbing layer 3 and the outer shell 2, thereby allowing airflow through the helmet 1.

An interface layer 13 (also called an attachment device) is provided, to interface with (and/or attach helmet 1 to) a wearer's head. As previously discussed, this may be desirable when energy absorbing layer 3 and rigid shell 2 cannot be adjusted in size, as it allows for the different size heads to be accommodated by adjusting the size of the attachment device 13. The attachment device 13 could be made of an elastic or semi-elastic polymer material, such as PC, ABS, PVC or PTFE, or a natural fibre material such as cotton cloth. For example, a cap of textile or a net could form the attachment device 13.

Although the attachment device 13 is shown as comprising a headband portion with further strap portions extending from the front, back, left and right sides, the particular configuration of the attachment device 13 can vary according to the configuration of the helmet. In some cases the attachment device may be more like a continuous (shaped) sheet, perhaps with holes or gaps, e.g. corresponding to the positions of vents 7, to allow air-flow through the helmet.

FIG. 4 also depicts an optional adjustment device 6 for adjusting the diameter of the head band of the attachment device 13 for the particular wearer. In other arrangements, the head band could be an elastic head band in which case the adjustment device 6 could be excluded.

A sliding facilitator 4 is provided radially inwards of the energy absorbing layer 3. The sliding facilitator 4 is adapted to slide against the energy absorbing layer or against the attachment device 13 that is provided for attaching the helmet to a wearer's head.

The sliding facilitator 4 is provided to assist sliding of the energy absorbing layer 3 in relation to an attachment device 13, in the same manner as discussed above. The sliding facilitator 4 may be a material having a low coefficient of friction, or may be coated with such a material.

As such, in the FIG. 4 helmet, the sliding facilitator 8 may be provided on or integrated with the innermost side of the energy absorbing layer 3, facing the attachment device 13.

However, it is equally conceivable that the sliding facilitator 4 may be provided on or integrated with the outer surface of the attachment device 13, for the same purpose of providing slidability between the energy absorbing layer 3 and the attachment device 13. That is, in particular arrangements, the attachment device 13 itself can be adapted to act as a sliding facilitator 4 and may comprise a low friction material.

In other words, the sliding facilitator 4 is provided radially inwards of the energy absorbing layer 3. The sliding facilitator can also be provided radially outwards of the attachment device 13.

When the attachment device 13 is formed as a cap or net (as discussed above), sliding facilitators 4 may be provided as patches of low friction material.

The low friction material may be a waxy polymer, such as PTFE, ABS, PVC, PC, Nylon, PFA, EEP, PE and UHMWPE, or a powder material which could be infused with a lubricant. The low friction material could be a fabric material. As discussed, this low friction material could be applied to either one, or both of the sliding facilitator and the energy absorbing layer.

The attachment device 13 can be fixed to the energy absorbing layer 3 and/or the outer shell 2 by means of fixing members 5, such as the four fixing members 5 a, 5 b, 5 c and 5 d in FIG. 4. These may be adapted to absorb energy by deforming in an elastic, semi-elastic or plastic way. However, this is not essential. Further, even where this feature is present, the amount of energy absorbed is usually minimal in comparison to the energy absorbed by the energy absorbing layer 3 during an impact.

According to the arrangement shown in FIG. 4 the four fixing members 5 a, 5 b, 5 c and 5 d are suspension members 5 a, 5 b, 5 c, 5 d, having first and second portions 8, 9, wherein the first portions 8 of the suspension members 5 a, 5 b, 5 c, 5 d are adapted to be fixed to the attachment device 13, and the second portions 9 of the suspension members 5 a, 5 b, 5 c, 5 d are adapted to be fixed to the energy absorbing layer 3.

FIG. 5 shows an arrangement of a helmet similar to the helmet in FIG. 4, when placed on a wearer's head. The helmet 1 of FIG. 5 comprises a hard outer shell 2 made from a different material than the energy absorbing layer 3. In contrast to FIG. 4, in FIG. 5 the attachment device 13 is fixed to the energy absorbing layer 3 by means of two fixing members 5 a, 5 b, which are adapted to absorb energy and forces elastically, semi-elastically or plastically.

A frontal oblique impact I creating a rotational force to the helmet is shown in FIG. 5. The oblique impact I causes the energy absorbing layer 3 to slide in relation to the attachment device 13. The attachment device 13 is fixed to the energy absorbing layer 3 by means of the fixing members 5 a, 5 b. Although only two such fixing members are shown, for the sake of clarity, in practice many such fixing members may be present. The fixing members 5 can absorb the rotational forces by deforming elastically or semi-elastically. In other arrangements, the deformation may be plastic, even resulting in the severing of one or more of the fixing members 5. In the case of plastic deformation, at least the fixing members 5 will need to be replaced after an impact. In some case a combination of plastic and elastic deformation in the fixing members 5 may occur, i.e. some fixing members 5 rupture, absorbing energy plastically, whilst other fixing members deform and absorb forces elastically.

In general, in the helmets of FIG. 4 and FIG. 5, during an impact the energy absorbing layer 3 acts as an impact absorber by compressing, in the same way as the inner shell of the FIG. 1 helmet. If an outer shell 2 is used, it will help spread out the impact energy over the energy absorbing layer 3. The sliding facilitator 4 will also allow sliding between the attachment device and the energy absorbing layer. This allows for a controlled way to dissipate energy that would otherwise be transmitted as rotational energy to the brain. The energy can be dissipated by friction heat, energy absorbing layer deformation or deformation or displacement of the fixing members. The reduced energy transmission results in reduced rotational acceleration affecting the brain, thus reducing the rotation of the brain within the skull. The risk of rotational injuries including MTBI and STBI such as subdural haematomas, SDH, blood vessel rapturing, concussions and DAI is thereby reduced.

Connectors that may be used within a helmet are described below. It should be appreciated that these connectors may be used in a variety of contexts and are not to be limited to use within helmets. For example, they may be used in other devices that provide impact protection, such as body armour or padding for sports equipment. In the context of helmets, the connectors may, in particular, be used in place of the previously known connecting members and/or fixing members of the arrangements discussed above.

In an arrangement, the connector may be used with a helmet 1 of the type shown in FIG. 6. The helmet shown in FIG. 6 has a similar configuration to that discussed above in respect of FIGS. 4 and 5. In particular, the helmet has a relatively hard outer shell 2 and an energy absorbing layer 3. A head attachment device is provided in the form of a helmet liner 15. The liner 15 may include comfort padding as discussed above. In general, the liner 15 and/or any comfort padding may not absorb a significant proportion of the energy of an impact in comparison with the energy absorbed by the energy absorbing layer 3.

The liner 15 may be removable. This may enable the liner to be cleaned and/or may enable the provision of liners that are modified to fit a specific wearer.

Between the liner 15 and the energy absorbing layer 3, there is provided an inner shell 14 formed from a relatively hard material, namely a material that is harder than the energy absorbing layer 3. The inner shell 14 may be moulded to the energy absorbing layer 3 and may be made from any of the materials discussed above in connection with the formation of the outer shell 2. In alternative arrangements, the inner shell 14 may be formed from a fabric material, optionally coated with a low friction material.

In the arrangement of FIG. 6, a low friction interface is provided between the inner shell 14 and the liner 15. This may be implemented by the appropriate selection of at least one of the material used to form the outer surface of the liner 15 or the material used to form the inner shell 14. Alternatively or additionally, a low friction coating may be applied to at least one of the opposing surfaces of the inner shell 14 and the liner 15. Alternatively or additionally, a lubricant may be applied to at least one of the opposing surfaces of the inner shell 14 and the liner 15.

As shown, the liner 15 may be connected to the remainder of the helmet 1 by way of one or more connectors 20, discussed in further detail below. Selection of the location of the connectors 20 and the number of connectors 20 to use may depend upon the configuration of the remainder of the helmet.

In an arrangement such as shown in FIG. 6, at least one connector 20 may be connected to the inner shell 14. Alternatively or additionally, one or more of the connectors 20 may be connected to another part of the remainder of the helmet 1, such as the energy absorbing layer 3 and/or the outer shell 2. The connectors 20 may also be connected to two or more parts of the remainder of the helmet 1.

FIG. 7 depicts a further alternative arrangement of a helmet 1. As shown, the helmet 1 of this arrangement includes a plurality of independent sections of comfort padding 16. Each section of comfort padding 16 may be connected to the remainder of the helmet by one or more connectors 20.

The sections of comfort padding 16 may have a sliding interface provided between the sections of comfort padding 16 and the remainder of the helmet 1. In such an arrangement, the sections of comfort padding 16 may provide a similar function to that of the liner 15 of the arrangement shown in FIG. 6. The options discussed above for provision of a sliding interface between a liner and a helmet also apply to the sliding interface between the sections of comfort padding and the helmet.

It should also be appreciated that the arrangement of FIG. 7, namely the provision of a plurality of independently mounted sections of comfort padding 16 provided with a sliding interface between the sections of comfort padding 16 and the remainder of the helmet, may be combined with any form of helmet, including those such as depicted in FIGS. 1 to 5 that also have a sliding interface provided between two other parts of the helmet.

FIGS. 8 and 9 show equivalent arrangements to those of FIGS. 6 and 7, except that the inner shell 14 is applied to the liner 15 (in FIG. 8) or comfort padding 16 (in FIG. 9). In the case of FIG. 9, the inner shell 14 may only be a partial shell or a plurality of sections of shell, as compared to the substantially full shell arrangements of FIGS. 6 to 8. Indeed, in both FIGS. 8 and 9 the inner shell 14 may also be characterised as a relatively hard coating on the liner 15 or comfort padding 16. As for FIGS. 6 and 7, the inner shell 14 is formed from a relatively hard material, namely a material that is harder than the energy absorbing layer 3. For example, the material could be PTFE, ABS, PVC, PC, Nylon, PFA, EEP, PE and UHMWPE. The material may be bonded to the outer side of the liner 15 or comfort padding 16 to simplify the manufacturing process. Such bonding could be through any means, such as by adhesive or by high frequency welding or stitching. In alternative arrangements, the inner shell 14 may be formed from a fabric material, optionally coated with a low friction material.

In FIGS. 8 and 9 a low friction interface is provided between the inner shell 14 and the energy absorbing layer 3. This may be implemented by the appropriate selection of at least one of the material used to form the outer surface of the energy absorbing layer 3 or the material used to form the inner shell 14. Alternatively or additionally, a low friction coating may be applied to at least one of the opposing surfaces of the inner shell 14 and the energy absorbing layer 3. Alternatively or additionally, a lubricant may be applied to at least one of the opposing surfaces of the inner shell 14 and the energy absorbing layer 3.

In FIGS. 8 and 9, at least one connector 20 may be connected to the inner shell 14. Alternatively or additionally, one or more of the connectors 20 may be connected to another part of the remainder of the liner 15 or comfort padding 16.

In another arrangement, the connector may be used with a helmet 1 of the type shown in FIG. 10. The helmet shown in FIG. 10 has a similar configuration to that discussed above in respect of FIGS. 1, 2, 3A and 3B. In particular, the helmet has a relatively hard outer shell 2 and an energy absorbing layer 3 configured to slide relative to each other. At least one connector 20 may be connected to the outer shell 2 and the energy absorbing layer 3. Alternatively, the connector may be connected one or more intermediate sliding layers associated with one or both of the outer shell 2 and the energy absorbing layer 2, which provide low friction.

In yet another arrangement, the connector may be used with a helmet 1 of the type shown in FIG. 11. The helmet shown in FIG. 11 has a similar configuration to that discussed above in respect of FIG. 3B. In particular, the helmet has a relatively hard outer shell 2 and an energy absorbing layer 3 which is divided into outer and inner parts 3A, 3B 3 configured to slide relative to each other. At least one connector 20 may be connected to the outer and inner parts 3A, 3B of the energy absorbing layer 3. Alternatively, the connector may be connected one or more intermediate sliding layers associated with one or both of the outer and inner parts 3A, 3B of the energy absorbing layer 3, which provide low friction.

FIG. 12 depicts yet another alternative arrangement of a helmet 1. In this arrangement, one or more outer plates 17 may be mounted to a helmet 1 having at least an energy absorbing layer 3 and a relatively hard layer 2 formed outward of the energy absorbing layer 2. It should be understood that such an arrangement of outer plates 17 may be added to any helmet according to any of the arrangements discussed above, namely having a sliding interface between at least two of the layers of the helmet 1.

The outer plates 17 may be mounted to the relatively hard layer 2 in a manner that provides a low friction interface between the outer surface of the relatively hard layer 2 and that least a part of a surface of the outer plate 17 that is in contact with the outer surface of the relatively hard layer 2, at least under an impact to the outer plate 17. In some arrangements, an intermediate low friction layer may be provided between the hard layer 2 and the plates 17

In addition, the manner of mounting the outer plates 17 may be such that, under an impact to an outer plate 17, the outer plate 17 can slide across the relatively hard layer 2 (or intermediate low friction layer). Each outer plate 17 may be connected to the remainder of the helmet 1 by one or more connectors 20.

In such an arrangement, in the event of an impact on the helmet 1, it can be expected that the impact would be incident on one or a limited number of the outer plates 17. Therefore, by configuring the helmet such that the one or more outer plates 17 can move relative to the relatively hard layer 2 and any outer plates 17 that have not been subject to an impact, the surface receiving the impact, namely one or a limited number of outer plates 17, can move relative to the remainder of the helmet 1. In the case of an oblique impact or a tangential impact, this may reduce the transfer of rotational forces to the remainder of the helmet. In turn, this may reduce the rotational acceleration imparted on the brain of a wearer of the helmet and/or reduce brain injuries.

Possible arrangements of connectors 20 will now be described. For convenience the connectors will generally be described as connecting an outer shell to an energy absorbing layer of a helmet, such as is shown in FIG. 11. However, it should be appreciated that the connector 20 may be used for connecting any two parts of an apparatus together, e.g. any of the layers described above. Furthermore, where below the connector 20 is described as having a first component connected to a first part of an apparatus, e.g. an outer shell, and a second component connected to a second part of an apparatus, e.g. an energy absorbing layer, it should be appreciated that, with suitable modifications, this may be reversed.

FIGS. 13 to 15 show different views of a first example connector 20 in accordance with the disclosure. As explained above, the connector 20 is for connecting inner and outer layers of an apparatus, such as a helmet.

The connector 20 generally comprises an anchor point 21 configured to be connected to the energy absorbing layer 3 of a helmet and/or an intermediate low friction layer 4 associated with the energy absorbing layer 3. The connector 20 further comprises a resilient portion 22 arranged to at least partially surround the anchor point 21, about a first axis extending in a first direction, and connected to the anchor point 21. A peripheral portion 23 of the connector 20 is arranged to at least partially surround the resilient portion 22, about a second axis extending in the first direction, and connected to the resilient portion 22. The peripheral portion 23 is also configured to be connected to the outer shell 2 of the helmet. The resilient portion 22 is configured deform to allow the anchor point 21 to move relative to the peripheral portion 23 in a direction perpendicular to the first direction.

The anchor point 21 shown in FIGS. 13 and 14 comprises a through-hole for the attachment of a fastener such as a snap-pin, bolt or the like. However, alternative arrangement are possible, for example, the anchor point 21 may be connected to the energy absorbing layer 3 by glue, a hook-and-loop arrangement or a magnet instead. As shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, the anchor point 21 may be formed within a part of the material forming the resilient portion 22. Alternatively, the anchor point 21 may be formed from a relatively rigid material connected to, or integrated with, the material forming the resilient portion 22 (an example of such an arrangement is shown in FIG. 41 and described further, below)

The peripheral portion 23 is primarily provided for connection of the connector 20 to the outer shell 2. However, the peripheral portion 23 may also provide strength and stability to the connector 20. Accordingly, the peripheral portion may be formed from a relatively rigid material compared to the material forming the resilient portion 22. The rigid material may be configured to retain its shape, under an impact to the helmet 1, while the resilient portion 22 deforms under the same impact. The rigid material may be, for example, PTFE, ABS, PVC, PC, Nylon, PFA, EEP, PE, UHMWPE, and metal.

As shown in FIGS. 13 to 15, the peripheral portion 23 may be substantially annular in shape. The peripheral portion 23 accordingly defines a central region surrounded by the annulus. The annular shape shown in FIGS. 13 and 14 is an example of a connector 20 in which the peripheral portion 23 forms a closed loop surrounding a central region. However, other examples may have different shapes, such as rectangular, square triangular, or any other arbitrary shape. Furthermore, in other examples, the peripheral portion 23 may not be closed around a central region, while still surrounding said central region. The second axis, may pass through the centre of the central region, e.g. the centre of the annular peripheral region 23.

As shown in FIG. 15, the peripheral portion 23 may be substantially flat. In other words, the peripheral portion 20 may have a relatively small thickness compared to its length and width. The length and width directions may define a plane (horizontal in FIG. 15), with the thickness direction (vertical in FIG. 15) being perpendicular to the plane. The thickness direction corresponds to the first direction defined above.

The peripheral portion 23 may have a substantially flat lower surface. This surface may be configured to connect to the outer shell 3. The flat surface may be in a plane perpendicular to the first direction.

As shown in FIGS. 13 to 15, the resilient portion 22 extends across the central region of the connector 20. In other words, the resilient portion 22 extends from one part of the peripheral portion 23 to another part. In the present example, the resilient portion 22 is provided in multiple sections separated by gaps. Specifically there are four sections, which form an X-shape, in this example. The anchor point 21 is located at the center of the X-shape, although this is not essential. More generally, the multiple sections of the resilient portion 22 may extend in a radial direction relative to the first axis surrounded by the resilient portion 22. Further, the resilient portion 22 may have rotational symmetry about the first axis. Any number of sections may be provided.

In the example shown in FIGS. 13 to 15, the first axis passes through the anchor point 21. The first axis is coincident with the second axis in the present example. In other words, both the axes are the same. However, this is not essential. In the present example, the peripheral portion 23 and the resilient portion 22 have rotational symmetry about the coincident first and second axes.

In the example shown in FIGS. 13 to 15, a part of the material forming the resilient portion 22 extends over the top of the peripheral portion 23 (i.e. on the side of the outer shell rather than the side of energy absorbing layer) and another part surrounds the peripheral portion 23. This helps to provide a secure connection between the resilient portion 22 and the peripheral portion 23. Further, the resilient portion 22 may be integrally formed with the peripheral portion 23, e.g. by co-moulding the different materials together.

FIGS. 13 to 15 show the example connector 20 when the resilient portion 22 is in a non-deformed state. In this non-deformed state, the resilient portion 22 is substantially flat. In other words, the resilient portion 22 does not substantially protrude from the peripheral portion 23 in the first (thickness) direction.

FIG. 16 shows the connector 20 of FIGS. 13 to 15 when it is connected to the outer shell 2 of the helmet 1, but before it is connected to the energy absorbing layer 3. It can be seen that the resilient portion 22 is still in its non-deformed state.

As shown in FIG. 16, the connector 20 is positioned on an outer side of the outer shell 2. In other words, the peripheral portion 23 is arranged on a side of the outer shell 2 opposite to the sliding interface (which is between the outer shell and the energy absorbing layer 3). A through-hole is provided in the outer shell 2, to allow connection to the energy absorbing layer 3. As shown in FIG. 16, a recess 2A is provided in the outer shell to accommodate the peripheral portion of the connector. This recess 2A is not essential, but it prevents lateral movement on the connector 20. Other mechanisms for anchoring the peripheral portion 23 (some examples of which are described below) may be used instead or additionally. Further, the energy absorbing layer 3 comprises a recess on a side facing the sliding interface. In other arrangements (e.g. with a thicker outer shell 2) such a recess facing the sliding interface may be provided in the outer shell 2 instead or additionally.

FIG. 17 shows the connector 20 of FIGS. 13 to 15 when it is connected to both the outer shell 2 of the helmet 1 and the energy absorbing layer 3 (via the low friction layer 4 associated with the energy absorbing layer 3). When connected, the resilient portion 22 is configured to protrude from the peripheral portion 23 in the first direction, through the outer shell 2.

It can be seen from FIG. 17 that, when connected, the resilient portion 22 in a deformed state. The resilient portion 22 is able to further deform to allow the anchor point 21 to move relative to the peripheral portion 23 in a direction perpendicular to the first direction.

As shown in FIG. 17, the anchor point 21 comprises a fastener 24 in the form of a snap-pin. In this example, the snap-pin passes through the through-hole of the anchor point 21 and snap-fits with a corresponding part associated with the energy absorbing layer 3 (in this case, part of the low friction layer 4).

FIGS. 18 and 19 show a second example connector 20. This connector 20 is similar in many respects to the first example connector 20. Accordingly, the major differences will be described. As shown in FIG. 18, the resilient portion 22 of the second example connector has three sections, rather than four. The three sections form a Y-shape. Further, the material forming the resilient portion 22 extends underneath the peripheral portion 23, rather than over the top.

FIGS. 20 and 21 show a third example connector 20. This connector 20 is similar in many respects to the first example connector 20. Accordingly, the major differences will be described. As shown in FIG. 19, the resilient portion 22 of the third example connector covers the entirety of the central region. Specifically, the resilient portion 22 is one section rather than multiple sections having gaps in between. In other words, the resilient portion 22 is substantially disc-shaped. In other examples in which the peripheral portion is not annular, the resilient portion 22 may be generally formed as a sheet. Further, although the resilient portion 22 still extends over the top of the peripheral portion 23, it does not also surround the peripheral portion 23. However, in other examples it could surround the peripheral portion 23.

Being disc-shaped, the overlap with the top of the peripheral portion 23 is relatively large, thus adequately securing the resilient portion 22 to the peripheral portion 22. This arrangement has the benefit that the central region is covered, so as to prevent the ingress of unwanted material.

FIGS. 22 and 23 show a fourth example connector. This connector 20 is similar in many respects to the third example connector 20. Accordingly, the major differences will be described. As shown in FIGS. 22 and 23, the material forming the resilient portion 22 extends underneath the peripheral portion, rather than over the top. Further, the material forming the resilient portion 22 completely covers the peripheral portion on one side, rather than just partially covering the peripheral portion. This provides a more secure attachment between the resilient portion 22 to the peripheral portion 22.

FIGS. 24 to 26 show a fifth example connector 20. This connector is of a different type to those shown in FIGS. 13 to 23. Whereas the examples shown in FIGS. 13 to 23 are of the type in which the resilient portion 22 is substantially flat in a non-deformed state, this is not the case for the type shown in FIGS. 24 to 26. In contrast, the resilient portion 22 of the fifth example connector 20 protrudes from the resilient portion 23 in the first direction, in the non-deformed state, e.g. when not connected to the helmet 1.

Notwithstanding the above, the fifth example connector 20 is similar in most respects to the first example connector 20. Accordingly, further major differences will be described. As shown in FIG. 26, the material forming the resilient portion 22 extends underneath the peripheral portion 23, rather than over the top.

FIGS. 28 and 29 shows the connector 20 of FIGS. 24 to 26 when it is connected to the outer shell 2 of the helmet 1 and the energy absorbing layer 3. FIGS. 28 and 29 show essentially the same thing, but the helmet of FIG. 28 includes a low friction layer 4 which is visible, whereas no low friction layer is visible in FIG. 29. It should be noted that, in the example of FIG. 28, a through-hole is provided in the low friction layer 4 and the connector 20 is connected directly between the outer shell 2 and the inner shell 3 through the through-hole.

As with the previous example connectors 20, when connected, the resilient portion 22 of the present example is configured to protrude from the peripheral portion 23 in the first direction, through the outer shell 2. The resilient portion 22 substantially remains in its non-deformed state when it is connected thus. However, some deformation may occur. The resilient portion 22 is able to deform (or further deform) to allow the anchor point 21 to move relative to the peripheral portion 23 in a direction perpendicular to the first direction.

The connection arrangement shown in FIGS. 28 and 29 is similar to that shown in FIGS. 16 and 17. However, it will be noted that no recess 2A is provided in the present arrangement. Further, the anchor point (via snap-pin 24) connects directly to the energy absorbing layer 3, rather than via the low friction layer 4.

FIGS. 30 to 32 show a sixth example connector 20. This connector 20 is similar in many respects to the fifth example connector 20. Accordingly, the major differences will be described.

As shown in FIGS. 30 to 32, the peripheral portion 23 of the connector 20 of the sixth example comprised protrusions 23 extending substantially radially with respect to the second axis.

Additionally, the connector 20 comprises an insert 26 configured to be inserted into the peripheral portion 23. The insert 26 is made from a rigid material (e.g. those described above in relation to the peripheral portion 23 of the previous examples) and configured to prevent the peripheral portion 23 deforming and/or becoming displaced. Accordingly, the peripheral portion 23 of the present example is formed from a resilient material, e.g. the resilient material forming the resilient portion 22 of the connector 20. The insert 26 may be configured, as in this example, to be inserted into the protrusions of the peripheral portion 23.

As shown, the insert 26 may comprise a central portion, substantially corresponding in shape to the central region defined by the peripheral portion 23, and protrusions therefrom, substantially corresponding in shape to the protrusions of the peripheral portion 23. This arrangement has the added benefit that the central region is covered, so as to prevent the ingress of unwanted material.

FIG. 27 shows a seventh example connector 20. In this example, the peripheral portion comprises a snap-fit portion 25 for connection with the outer shell 2. The snap fit portion 25, extends in the first direction from the underneath of the peripheral portion 23. The snap-fit portion 25 is configured to snap-fit around the edge of the through-hole in the outer shell 2. This is an example of a mechanism for anchoring the peripheral portion 23 in the outer shell 2.

FIGS. 33 and 35 show an eighth example connector 20. In this example, the peripheral portion 23 comprises protrusions 27 (in this case two, but any number is possible) extending in a direction perpendicular to the first direction (e.g. radial direction with respect to the second axis). As shown in FIG. 35, the protrusions 27 are configured to protrude beneath a portion of the outer shell 2. Such an arrangement may provide a snap-fit connection between the peripheral portion 23 and the outer shell 2. The protrusions 27 may protrude beneath a raised portion of the outer shell 2, as shown. However, this is not essential. This is another example of a mechanism for anchoring the peripheral portion 23 in the outer shell 2.

FIGS. 36 to 39 show a ninth example connector. In this example, the peripheral portion 23 comprises protrusions 28 (in this case two, but any number is possible) extending obliquely with respect to the first direction. As shown, the protrusions 28 may each form a loop.

The protrusions 28 are configured to be embedded in one of the helmet layers for anchoring the peripheral portion 28 to the layer. In this case, the layer is preferably relatively thick, so is most likely to be the energy absorbing layer 3 rather than the outer shell 2, although this is not necessarily the case. Accordingly, the anchor point 21 may connect to the outer shell 2. FIGS. 37 and 38 show a cross section through such an arrangement. FIGS. 37 and 38 show essentially the same thing, but the helmet of FIG. 38 includes a low friction layer 4, whereas the helmet of FIG. 37 does not.

In this example, the peripheral portion 23 further comprises protrusions 28 (in this case two, but any number is possible) extending perpendicular to the first direction. These may be used to locate and align the connector 20 within the energy absorbing layer 3 by engaging with corresponding recesses in the energy absorbing layer, as shown in FIG. 39.

FIGS. 40 and 41 show a tenth example connector 20. In this example, the connector 20 comprises a cap 30 for covering the central region so as to prevent the ingress of unwanted material. The cap 30 is connected to the peripheral portion 23 via a hinge 31. The cap also comprises a snap-fit connector 32 configured to engage with a corresponding part 33 of the peripheral portion. The cap 30, hinge 31 and snap-fit connector 32 may be integrally formed with each other and with the peripheral portion 23.

The tenth example connector 20 further comprises protrusions 29 (in this case two, but any number is possible) extending downwards (i.e. towards the energy absorbing layer 3) in the first direction. These may be used to locate and align the connector 20 within the outer shell 2 by engaging with corresponding recesses in the outer shell 2.

Further, the anchor point 21 of this example comprises an integrally formed fastener in the form of a snap-pin 24. The snap-pin 24 may be formed from a rigid material (e.g. the same material as the rigid peripheral portion 23). The material of the snap-pin 24 and the material forming the resilient portion 22 may be co-moulded together, for example.

FIGS. 42 to 44 show an eleventh example connector 20. In this example, a cap 30 is again provided. However, the cap 30 is not permanently connected to the peripheral portion via a hinge 31. Instead, the cap 30 is provided as a separate component. In this example, the peripheral portion 23 comprises snap-fit connectors (in this case two, but any number is possible) configured to engage with corresponding parts 33 of the cap 30.

FIGS. 45 and 46 show twelfth and thirteenth example connectors 20 having alternative arrangements for the anchor point 21. In these examples, the anchor point 21 is formed from a relatively hard material, e.g. the same materials the peripheral portion 23. This may be co-moulded with the material forming the resilient portion 22 for example. As shown in FIG. 45, the anchor point 21 comprises a circular through-hole. As shown in FIG. 46, the anchor point 21 comprises a substantially circular through-hole with further (e.g. four) cut-out portions extending radially from the circular portion (e.g. to form a cross shape). In both cases, the through-hole may be configured to snap fit with a snap-pin associated with the layer to which it is attached, e.g. the energy absorbing layer 3.

FIGS. 47 and 48 show a fourteenth example connector 20. As shown, the connector is similar in its basic structure to the connector shown in FIG. 20. As illustrated in FIG. 47, the connector 20 comprises protrusions 27 from the peripheral portion 23 configured to provide a snap-fit connection with the layer of the apparatus to which it is attached.

As illustrated in the cross-section shown in FIG. 47, the anchor point 21 of the connector 20 comprises a snap-pin fastener 24 configured to be attached the other layer of the apparatus. In this example, the snap-pin 24 comprises a collar, or flange 24 a surrounding the snap-pin 24. This flange 24 a assists in correctly securing the snap-pin fastener 24 to the layer of the apparatus.

FIGS. 49 and 50 show a fifteenth example connector 20. As shown, the connector 20 is similar in many respects to the connector in FIGS. 24 to 27. However, as shown, the resilient portion 22 of the fifteenth example connector covers the entirety of the central region. Further, the resilient portion 22 is provided over the top of the peripheral portion 23. Further still, the anchor point 21 comprises a snap-pin 24.

FIGS. 51 and 52 show a sixteenth example connector 20. As shown, the connector is similar in many respects to the example connector shown in FIGS. 49 and 50. However, the resilient portion 22 is provided beneath the peripheral portion 23. Additionally, the resilient portion 22 comprises a collar or flanged portion 22 a surrounding the resilient portion 22. The flanged portion 22 a defines a gap between itself and the peripheral portion 23. This gap is configured to accommodate a portion of the layer of the apparatus to which the peripheral portion 23 is connected. This assists in correctly securing the connector to the apparatus.

FIG. 53 shows a seventeenth example connector. As shown, the anchor point 21 comprises two arms 21 a extending in mutually different directions. As shown, the arms 21 a may extend perpendicularly to the first axis. The arms may be configured to be inserted through a hole in the layer to which the anchor point is attached, then extend in order to prevent the connector 20 being disconnected from the layer. Accordingly, the arms may be formed form a resilient material, e.g. the same material as the resilient portion 22.

FIG. 54 shows an example outer shell 2 of a helmet configured to be used with any one of the connectors 20 described above. The outer shell 2 comprises a recess 2A as described above for accommodating a connector. In this example, the recess 2A is at least partially defined by a peripheral ridge 2B. The recess 2A further comprises a hole 2C for the connector 20 to pass through to connect to the other layer of the apparatus. Although FIG. 54 shows the outer shell 2 as a single section, in other examples, the outer shell may be divided into multiple sections, each configured to slide independently of each other. Accordingly, one or more connectors 20 would be provided to each section.

FIG. 55 shows an example helmet comprising the outer shell 2 shown in FIG. 54 multiple connectors 20 connecting the outer shell 2 to an inner layer of the helmet. As shown, different types of connector 20 may be used at different locations on the helmet. In some example, the inner surface of the outer shell 2 and the outer surface of the inner layer of the helmet may each have a substantially spherical surface to improve sliding between the layers.

Generally, the connectors 20 described above may be configured such that the peripheral portion lies substantially in a plane parallel to the layer to which it is attached, i.e. a plane substantially perpendicular to the radial direction of a helmet. The first and/or second axes described above may be configured to extend substantially in the radial direction of a helmet. The connector 20 may permit relative movement between layers substantially perpendicular to the radial direction of a helmet.

Various arrangements are described above for anchoring the peripheral portion 23 in the outer shell 2. However, alternatively, the peripheral portion 23 may be part of, or integrally formed with, the outer shell 2. For example, the central region may be formed by a through-hole in the outer shell 2, such that the edge of the through-hole may be regarded as the peripheral portion 23. The resilient member 22 may be attached to, or integrated, with (e.g. co-moulded with) the outer shell 2. In another example, the outer shell 2 may be moulded around, or co-moulded with, the connector 20, such that the connector 20 is embedded therein.

It should be understood that features of each of the examples described above may be combined. For example any one of the above examples may be modified to include features described in relation to any other of the examples. For example, any one of the different arrangements of the peripheral portion 23 and/or resilient portion 22 may be interchanged. Further, any one of the arrangements for aligning or anchoring the peripheral portion in the outer shell 2 may be used with any of the described connectors 20 and in combination with other arrangements. Furthermore, any of the connectors may be modified to include a cap 30 of any type. Further still, any type of fastening means may be used to connect the anchor point 21 of any of the above connectors to the helmet 1. 

1. A connector for connecting inner and outer layers of an apparatus, the connector comprising: an anchor point configured to be connected to one of the inner and outer layers; a resilient portion arranged to at least partially surround the anchor point about a first axis extending in a first direction and connected to the anchor point; a peripheral portion arranged to at least partially surround the resilient portion about a second axis extending in the first direction and connected to the resilient portion, and configured to be connected to the other of the inner and outer layers; wherein the resilient portion is configured to protrude from the peripheral portion in the first direction, in a connected state in which the connector is connected to the inner and outer layers, and deform to allow the anchor point to move relative to the peripheral portion in a direction perpendicular to the first direction.
 2. The connector according to claim 1, wherein in a non-deformed state, the resilient portion is substantially flat, and the connected state is a deformed state of the resilient portion.
 3. The connector according to claim 1, wherein in a non-deformed state, the resilient portion protrudes from the peripheral portion in the first direction.
 4. The connector according to claim 1, wherein the resilient portion extends across a central region of the connector surrounded by the peripheral region, wherein optionally the resilient portion substantially covers the entirety of the central region or alternatively the resilient portion comprises multiple sections having gaps therebetween, wherein optionally the multiple sections extend in a radial direction relative to the first axis.
 5. (canceled)
 6. (canceled)
 7. (canceled)
 8. The connector according to claim 1, wherein the peripheral portion forms a closed loop, wherein optionally the peripheral portion is substantially annular and the second axis passes through the center of the peripheral portion, wherein optionally the anchor point is aligned with the first axis.
 9. (canceled)
 10. (canceled)
 11. The connector according to claim 1, wherein the first and second axes are coincident, wherein optionally the resilient portion and the peripheral portion have rotational symmetry about the coincident first and second axes.
 12. (canceled)
 13. The connector according to claim 1, wherein the peripheral portion is formed from a rigid material.
 14. The connector according to claim 1, further comprising an insert formed from a rigid material, the insert being configured to be inserted into the peripheral portion to prevent the peripheral portion deforming, wherein optionally the peripheral portion is formed from a resilient material.
 15. (canceled)
 16. The connector according to claim 1, wherein the resilient portion and the peripheral portion are integrally formed.
 17. The connector according to claim 1, wherein the anchor point comprises a snap-fit connector configured to snap fit with the inner or outer layer.
 18. The connector according to claim 1, further comprising a cap configured to cover a central region of the connector surrounded by the peripheral region so as to prevent the ingress of unwanted material to the central region.
 19. The connector according to claim 1, further comprising protrusions connected to the peripheral portion and configured to anchor the peripheral portion in the inner or outer layer.
 20. An apparatus comprising: an inner layer; an outer layer; a sliding interface between the inner layer and the outer layer; and the connector according to any preceding claim connected to the inner and outer layers so as to allow relative sliding between the inner and outer layers at the sliding interface, in response to an impact to the apparatus.
 21. The apparatus according to claim 20, wherein the peripheral portion is arranged on a side of the inner or outer layer to which it is connected and that is opposite to the sliding interface, and the resilient portion protrudes through the inner or outer layer.
 22. The apparatus according to claim 21, wherein the peripheral portion is arranged within a recess in the inner or outer layer to which it is connected.
 23. The apparatus according to claim 20, wherein the apparatus is a helmet.
 24. The apparatus according to claim 23, wherein the outer layer is a hard shell and the inner layer is an energy absorbing layer.
 25. The apparatus according to claim 23, wherein the inner layer is a hard shell and the outer layer comprises one or more plates connected to the hard shell.
 26. The apparatus according to claim 23, wherein both the inner layer and the outer layer are energy absorbing layers.
 27. The apparatus according to claim 23, wherein the outer layer is an energy absorbing layer and the inner layer is an interface layer, configured to interface with a wearer's head, wherein optionally the interface layer comprises comfort padding.
 28. (canceled) 